The Delhi High Court deferred the hearing in petitions filed by residents of Bhai Ram Camp challenging their proposed eviction from land allegedly adjoining an Indian Air Force establishment. The Court directed the parties to place detailed written submissions on record and listed the matter for further hearing on March 18.
Additional Solicitor General Chetan Sharma, appearing for the Union of India, submitted that a reply had been filed in connected matters and that the government’s stand remained consistent across the cases. The Petitioners contend that unauthorised occupants are employees of the Race-course Club.
The Union contended that the land in question was strategically sensitive as it is located near an Indian Air Force area and that the occupants are unauthorized and illegal occupants. It further submitted that rehabilitation arrangements had been initiated and around 150 people have relocated and that photographs and details of the alternative sites had been placed on record.
On the other hand, counsel for the petitioners argued that the proposed eviction would jeopardize the livelihood of several families residing in the camp for decades. It was submitted that many residents work as drivers and tourism workers and that relocation to distant sites lacking basic facilities could adversely affect access to education, healthcare, and employment.
The matter will now be taken up on March 18 for further consideration.